Hotel Happenings in the Caribbean

This winter, the Caribbean is welcoming a few old and new faces gracing its beaches with a bevy of hotel happenings.

Last month, Aruba received a new luxury hotel with the opening of the first Ritz-Carlton on the island.

Set on Palm Beach, The Ritz Carlton, Aruba features 320 rooms, including 55 suites, all offering private balconies and views of the Caribbean Sea. Guests can also choose one of 34 rooms on the seventh floor with the Club Lounge, or one of two suites showcasing panoramic oceanfront views with outdoor showers.

For travelers who want to indulge in pampering, the 15,000-sq.-ft. spa, the largest on the island, offers 13 treatment rooms and signature island-inspired treatments, which incorporate locally grown ingredients like coconut and cactus. The dining options, meanwhile, also showcase the island’s flavors, with four options to choose from: the Madero Argentinian Grill, with poolside seating, specialty cocktails and light bites; Solanio, an all-day trattoria; the fine-dining seafood restaurant, Les Crustaces; and Divi Bar & Lounge, which serves up light bites and craft cocktails.

In Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, AMResorts launched its new, adults-only brand with the opening of Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa.

“This new brand launch marks the next growth phase for AMResorts and also emphasizes our commitment to the Dominican Republic where we now have seven resorts,” says AMResorts president Gonzalo del Peon. “Breathless Resorts & Spas brings an innovative vacation option for sophisticated travelers that seek a vibrant social atmosphere all at a great value.”

The 750-room hotel, which opened in November, features the brand’s signature program, Unlimited-Luxury, which includes first-class amenities and services, such as WiFi, international calling, activities and entertainment. Rooms and suites offer ocean views and private terraces, with flat-screen TVs, mini bars refreshed daily and 24-hour room and concierge service. In addition, guests can choose from 13 dining facilities and seven bars and lounges, with cuisine ranging from Lebanese and French to gourmet grilled specialties and buffets.

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